Ask potential letter writers whether they would be willing to write STRONG recommendations for you; politely ask for their frank assessment and be strategic about how you approach each.

Keep in mind some faculty will be on leave in the semester you would need their letter submission; find out in advance whether your potential writers will be accessible when you need them (whether on campus or through e-communication).

Send your letter writers specific instructions on letter formatting and submission; make sure to copy their assistant if you know that person will be keeping tabs on letter filing.

Send your letter writers selection criteria for each fellowship to which you apply.

Fill out the Applicant History Questionnaire and forward it to your letter writers, or send your letter writers materials to support their detailed assessment of your application (your transcripts/course background, resume/list of extracurricular activities, plan or proposed course of study for each particular fellowship, relevant background information for them to paint a fuller picture of who you are).